What is a Calcaneal (heel bone) fracture?

The calcaneus is the formal name for the heel bone of the foot. The calcaneus along with the talus (the bone directly above it) form the subtalar joint which is an important joint for proper foot function.

Causes and Symptoms

A fracture of the calcaneus can occur from trauma, such as a fall from a height, motor vehicle accident and less commonly a stress fracture. Common symptoms include:

• Heel pain
• Difficulty walking
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Blisters

Treatment

Treatment of calcaneal fractures depends on the severity and location of the fracture.

Non-surgical Treatments

• Splint/Cast Immobilization- the foot will be immobilized in order to allow the foot bone to heal.
• Icing/Elevation- helps reduce swelling

Surgical Treatments

• Severe fractures and those causing joint collapse often require surgical repair. This usually involves the use of plates and screws to realign the joint and fracture fragments.
• Splint/Cast Immobilization- in order to allow the bone fragments to heal.